Whispered Southern Secrets

Magnolia Grove #11

by Gail Haris

Millard and Minnie own Mimi's Gasoline Grove.
A staple in the community.
Everyone goes there for their sweet tea, full-service, and gossip. Especially now that their granddaughter has moved back.

And she's been spotted being friendly with the new, young, and handsome preacher.

They share a secret, and in the small town of Magnolia Grove, everyone is whispering about it.

196 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 7, 2024

About the author

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Gail Haris loves blending romance out of life's everyday chaos. Stories filled with humor, steam, and moments of sweetness, along with suspense and twists.

Fueled by coffee and a wild imagination, Gail writes in a variety of genres including romantic comedy, romantic suspense, and new adult/coming of age romance.

Gail enjoys living in a small town in Southeast Missouri, and then taking adventures all over the world with her two fierce princesses and Boo Bear, who is her ultimate real-life book boyfriend.

When she’s not getting into mischief or scheming with her two girls, she’s busy coming up with crazy scenarios for her characters. Hopefully by following her dream, she can be an example to her daughters that their dreams can become a reality.

"Never stop believing in love, dreams, and yourself. And coffee…don’t give up on coffee and books."

Learn more at gailharis.com

Reviews

[Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a completely different story to the rest of the Magnolia Grove small town series.

Honey just moved to Magnolia Grove to live with her grandparents. This is where she runs into her one-night stand from three years ago, JD.

JD returned home after leaving the Air Force and he is now helping his dad as a pastor. Seeing Honey again returns the spark/chemistry he felt when he first met her. Things are a bit different now that he is a Pastor and Honey seems to have this wall around her, but he is determined to marry this woman 😊

The story was so sweet. Honey had some issues to get over from her previous relationship. JD was so patient, sweet and willing to put in the work. There were definitely some sweet moments. The time JD spent with James; I loved it. A good read that I enjoyed getting to know the new couple in Magnolia Grove😉

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner

[Kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whispered Southern Secrets is the next book in the Magnolia Grove series. This one is Honey and JD's story. They had a one night stand 3 years before. Now both are back in Magnolia Grove and are trying to get their life together. There is a twist, JD is the new pastor in town. I thought this one was cute. Because it involves a pastor, its very tame compared to the other books in this series. I loved the length of time that the story spanned. I really felt like the two of them got to know each other. First as friends and then that friendship grew into love. Through that love, they both became more open and confident in themselves. The relationship that JD developed with James was a nice added bonus to the story. I definitely recommend this one.

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whispered Southern Secrets by Gail Haris is part of the Magnolia Grove Series.

Ha! As if I could choose a serious intro for this book!
OH MY GOODNESS! Can someone explain to me why I'm crying now that I have finished this beautiful story? 🥹🥹🥹

Honey Beaumont (actually, her name is Harper, but no one calls her that) is back in Magnolia Grove.
Little did she expect to find out that the preacher's son is the same guy she had an ONS with 3 years ago... Oops. 🤭
Can they both keep their little secret in this small town? And how will they deal with each other after such a passionate night?

Awwwwwwww!
So, I thought this book would be another cute and sexy short story. But... I didn't expect it to be THIS INTENSE AND EMOTIONAL! 🥲🥲🥲
Don't get me wrong! I love cute, sexy stories! But this was the perfect start for pre-Christmas season. In my opinion!
Everything feels so magical now that it's December, and Whispered Southern Secrets just supported this cosy mood.

And I still don't know why I'm crying now... I guess their story just touched my soul so much that my feelings broke loose or something.

Honey is such a great female main character. She had to deal with a failed marriage and still has to deal with her personal insecurities.

And then there's HIM.
JD - John David, who exactly knows how to support her and be there to her, encourage her. OMG. With every little thing he did, I fell even more in love with him.
He saw her for what she truly is. A beautiful, young woman with a good heart, great humour, and so much more. ❤️🥹

Awwwww! They made me swoon sooo much! I just melted... 🫠
I devoured this beautiful love story because the whole mood of it was kinda quiet and encouraging and sweet and beautiful and funny and heartwarming and so much more. 💗

Thank you so much to Gail Haris for this ARC.
Honey and JD will have a special place in my heart forever. ❤️
This is my honest review in my own words.

[Deanna Hopping · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honey found herself at the local bar to sing some karaoke and have a few drinks, she found herself thinking it was her turn to sing, and it wasn't it was a very good-looking man, singing her song. she found herself stuck on him and drowning in his voice, they meet, and he wants her name Honey has 2 rules when she goes out 1) no names and 2) no hooks-up, but she then finds herself breaking her rules and in the sheets with this mystery military man. after 3 years of being away from home and a divorce later Honey was moving back to the small town, she always considered Honey finds herself back in Magnolia Grove for her bestie's grandmother's funeral and she wasn't not going to show up for her. home. Honey still can't get her mind off of her one night stand she never does that but with it had been 3 years it was definitely a wild night she knew she would never see the mystery man again, well she didn't think she would until she heard his magical voice in no other place then behind the pudendum at Sunday service and he's the preachers son. Honey is traumatized and Mr. preacher man is just as shocked, sermons, and trying to get Honey's heart is what he's working on being back in the small town, will he be able to pray and get into her heart or will the devil get to it first. this was a very slow start with a lot of repeating in the first few chapters but then it started picking up and was good.

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.

The below books are part of this series if you want to read those books(s) first
Single Southern Flirt by Cary Hart
Sweet Southern Memories (Magnolia Grove #2) by C.A. Harms
Fake Southern Fiancé (Magnolia Grove Book 3) by Brittany Holland
Rugged Southern Charmer (Magnolia Grove #4) by Fabiola Francisco
Slow Southern Kisses (Magnolia Grove #5) by T.C. Matson
Tempting Southern Days (Magnolia Grove Book 7) by L.P. Dover
Endless Southern Love (Magnolia Grove #8) by Heidi McLaughlin
Sweet Southern Heat (Magnolia Grove #9) by Ashley Cade
Secret Southern Promises (Magnolia Grove #10) by Winter Travers

This is Honey and JD’s story. Honey is returning to town after a divorce. She wanted to go back to were she grew up and also a bonus to see her grandparents. When she sees the new preacher she is thrown back to a one night stand she had. The pull from that one night still exists but can she do anything about it? After all she came back to stay and is something happens will she want to leave? He is not opposed to starting something but is she ready? Can they build a forever with them being so different?

I recommend this book.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐬 by Gail Haris is the 10th book in the multi-author Magnolia Grove small town romance series, featuring a one-night stand romance with a cute twist for Honey and JD. Honey’s personal life has not gone according to plan, and now she’s back in Magnolia Grove with her grandparents starting over. Imagine her surprise when the young, handsome, new preacher is someone she knows. Can Honey and JD get to know each other without the town busybodies interfering?

I have enjoyed each book in this small town series, and this story was a sweet addition. I enjoyed the characters and their dynamic. Honey had a fun, sassy personality, while JD’s level-headedness was capable of balancing her out. I loved their compassion, from their interactions with James to the puppy shenanigans. It was a quick, sweet read a little bit of small town drama.

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#WhisperedSouthernSecretsGailHaris #OneNightStand #PreacherMMC #StartingOver #Pining #SlowBurn #smalltownromance #SmallTownScandal

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a timely reminder that we should not be so quick to judge. Gossip may seem harmless but words can truly hurt people.

Honey is back in Magnolia Grove after a bad divorce. JD has also returned after leaving the Air Force and is now assisting his father as a pastor. The two of them have a shared history and sparks still fly whenever they meet.

However, with JD being a pastor now, his mindset has changed and he befriends Honey, and slowly her walls are broken down. When the truth behind her divorce is revealed, I was truly mad on her behalf. But she has JD now, so good things have come to past.

I also loved the interactions between JD and James, and it was lovely to see the three of them sharing a moment of joy while singing. The verses which James shared were hilarious and so on point!

[Erin Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whispered Southern Secrets by Gail Haris is the 10th book in the Magnolia Grove series – 12 books by 12 different authors. This book features a one-night stand, slow burn, small town second chance romance between Honey and JD. Honey is back home in Magnolia Grove and is staying with her grandparents so she can get a fresh start after her divorce. She is surprised to cross paths with JD, whom she shared a one-night stand with a few years ago. Sparks fly between Honey and JD. Honey’s spirited sass paired with JD’s calm personality created the perfect contrast between main characters and ultimately led to the perfect slow burn romance.

This was the first book that I have read by Gail Haris, and I loved it! The storyline between Honey and JD was touching and sweet with the most perfect ending!

Thank you, Gail Haris and Enticing Journey, for allowing me to review this ARC!

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The charming, heartwarming town of Magnolia Grove returns with another swoon-worthy romance, this time from author Gail Haris in Whispered Southern Secrets, the eleventh book in the series by multiple talented authors. This story follows Honey, who, after a recent divorce, returns to her roots—and her grandparents—in Magnolia Grove, only to stumble upon a familiar face from her past. An unforgettable one-night stand that still lingers in her heart reappears in the form of JD, the new preacher in town.

Honey’s spirited sass paired with JD's calm, steady demeanor creates a delightful contrast that builds up in a perfect slow-burn romance. Their story is both touching and sweet, with a wonderful ending that left me completely satisfied. This book is yet another beautiful addition to the Magnolia Grove series, and I can’t wait for more!

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're following my reviews you can tell that I read maybe one or two "clean" romance authors. But I just found my third one. Gail Haris had me glued to my seat and reading so fast I though my kindle would catch fire. And that's saying something considering there was no heat what so ever in this sweet story.

Our MC's both have pasts that they are not necessarily proud off and they both want to start something with their lives that would give them purpose. When life gives them a second chance, they take it and together they start the healing process.

As said I was glued to my screen and couldn't be happier with how everything turn out. I'm definitely coming back to this author in the future.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

[Erin Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Star Review Whispered Southern Secrets (Magnolia Grove #11) by Gail Harris

Gail Harris is a new author to me and I am shocked I have not come across this author before. I couldn’t wait to dive into Whispered Southern Secrets which was a good addition to the Magnolia Grove series written by a variety of authors.

I love my visits to Magnolia Grove, Alabama. This is Honey and JD’s story and it was a well written, entertaining read that ticked numerous boxes for me.

Honey returns home after her failed marriage, to stay with her grandparents she is t looking for love. 

I was invested in their journey as the chemistry between them exploded. Will they get a chance to explore what is happening or will the people of Magnolia Grove interfere?

One click and find out. 


[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 11th book in this amazing series, and Honey and JD’s story is a terrific addition.
Honey comes back home to stay with her grandparents for a fresh start after her divorce, and is surprised to cross paths with JD, whom she shared a one night stand with previously. The sparks fly between these two, and JD is determined to win over Honey’s heart.
This is a well written easy to read story, with found family, friendships, emotions, secrets, gossip, undeniable chemistry, humor, witty banter, engaging and realistic characters, second chance at love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet, small town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love my visits to Magnolia Grove, Alabama and this time we are back there for Honey and DJ’s entertaining second chance love story.
Honey is back in her hometown after her marriage failed. Her grandparents need some help and it gives her the opportunity to start over. The last thing she expects is to come face to face with the man she had a hook up with a while ago……
This is a well written, entertaining story that ticked my boxes. The chemistry is hot, the characters easy to love and their story is believable.
This is a series written by multiple authors and this is Gail Haris’s contribution. This is the first book I have read by this author but it certainly won’t be the last.

[Kamila Mykhailiuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.

I couldn’t get enough of this book and I read it in one sitting. This is a very interesting and unique story, I have never read anything like this before.

Honey and JD’s relationship started from a one night stand, but then three years later, when they meet again and both shocked, JD is determined to win her heart. I loved their banter and conversations. They were made for each other.

Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a one-night stand, slow burn, small town romance then you’re going to love it.

[Jenn Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started out enjoying the book. Honey and JD meet one night and after a one night stand where they don't share names, they move on with their lives. Then we go forward a few years to when they are in the same small town, their hometown and find each other again. I enjoyed their connection, getting to know each other, and how that connection grows. Honey is moving on from her past, from people that were trying to pull her down. I loved her and that determination. JD's father is the pastor of the church in town, he grew up there, it was a part of his life, but he felt pulled to other things. Then he "found religion" again and it just felt very excessive and he would barely even kiss her on the cheek. Having that added to that extent just really pulled me out of their story and I considered DNF several times.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

After her marriage ended Honey returned to Magnolia Grove to stay with her grandparents as she tries to determine what happens next. The last person she expected to see was JD, the man she spent one night with, or the fact that he is now a pastor.

After serving his country JD returned to his hometown and is now a pastor. Seeing Honey again he realizes that now that they are at different points in their lives, he wants a future with her but first he must help her heal from the past.

Honey and JD are exactly who the other needs as she brings fun into his life and he shows her that she can trust him with her heart.

[LLS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another solid addition to this series! Honey comes back to Magnolia Grove to attend her best friend's grandmother's funeral. She is fresh off a divorce and hurting. She is lost and not sure what to do next. At church, she runs into her one night stand JD. She is shocked to find out that he is a preacher at her grandmother's church. They both realize that they still have something between them. JD is willing to wait and work on their relationship. Honey takes a bit longer to admit to her feelings. I really enjoyed reading their journey to happiness.

[MJ's Book Blog and Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review by: Jennifer
(4 Stars)

Love this multi-author series, I said it before, but this is the perfect way to find new to you authors. This was indeed a new to me author, and a really good addition to this series. Honey and JD have a one and done, an unforgettable one and done, and later when Honey is home for her grandmother's funeral, she is shocked to find JD there. There are sparks flying all over this story, we get chemistry, funny bits, and some drama. This may be my first read by this author, but it will not be my last. I give JD and Honey 4 stars.

[Denise Hoover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first preacher story and it was a bit different. But in a good way.

J.D. and Honey share a spicy summer past, so when Honey moves back to Magnolia Grove after feeling like she’s failed, she’s not looking at doing anything but keeping her nose clean.

A lot has changed in the last 3 years, including J.D. changing career paths from the Air Force to following in his father’s footsteps of being a preacher.

The connection is just as fast and deep as it was 3 years ago. Honey wants to take things slow though since she’s just came out of her own turmoil. So J.D. is prepared to wait her out as long as he can, before he makes her officially his.

[Sally Guildford-Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this

I’ve just finished this and am surprised to say I enjoyed it. I was brought up a Christian but I don’t go to church as though I believe in many things written in the bible I’ve lost my faith in others. I’m not religious at all. Usually a book which talks on this subject is a no go but it was written with a great mix of feeling, the biblical passages used were in the correct place.
This isn’t a book about religion it’s about love, lust and faith. A really good mix of all three.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honey returns to Magnolia Grove for the funeral of her friend's grandmother. With a failed marriage behind her, she reconnects with JD, a former hook up. He is now a pastor having left the Air Force and is currently helping his father. The chemistry between them reignites. However, Honey is wary about embarking on another relationship. But JD is determined to convince her that they can have a future together.

[Kylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whispered Southern Secrets was a second chance at not only love but life in general with JD and Honey. Their story was a little quirky and filled with witty banter. Some of the secondary characters in this book were just as entertaining and had me laughing out loud at times. A story that is not only filled with passion and emotion but at times carries a message or two along with it. Another great addition to this much loved series.

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

One night leads to so much more when Honey and JD come face to face in Magnolia Grove, but with low expectations that the new preacher can have his congregation and Honey in his life leads to some interesting interactions and a whole lot of love. A quick and easy storyline with not a lot of spice but loads of love and compassion.

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Honey has finally come home and her story breaks my heart but her biggest surprise is JD. This story is full of love, laughter, small town gossip and friendship. I loved little Cash, James, Daisy, but especially Mini and Pepaw. I love this series and all the special stories told by some amazing authors.

[Shannon Godwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoying this series and all the characters. Honey’s story is going to break your heart so be prepared. JS and Honey had a one night stand once. What happens when she moved back after a divorce is for you to read and find out. Will they get their second chance or will she push him away. Great book

[Karrie Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really sweet addition to the series. JD and Honey were really fun to read. The sass from Honey was relatable while JD was the calm to her. Being the one night stand from years ago just to end up her small town pastor was a great twist to shake things up. A fast read with a sweet ending.

[Karie Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

This is definitely a first for me. I really enjoyed this book. To incorporate Christians and the Church is a fine line that this author completely knocked out of the park. I loved this book and especially this couple..

[Tracy Kincaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

different

This was a different kind of story for this series. I’m not a big religious person so I thought that part was a bit much, but otherwise I like the story.

[Michele Del Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so intriguing and had my attention from the beginning. The chemistry along with the story had me fully invested in this love story.

[M L · Rating 5 out of 5]

aw

Definitely was not expecting this story at all. I love this series. This story was definitely a different take on things.